The Effect of Visuospatial Neglect on Functional Outcome and Discharge Destination: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackground and Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of visuospatial neglect on functional outcome and discharge destination in individuals with right brain damage. Methods: Sixteen subjects agreed to participate in the study and 6 of these subjects demonstrated visuospatial neglect. During two different data collection periods, participants were evaluated with the Rivermead Behavioral Inattention Test, the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Berg Balance Scale, and the Chedoke-McMaster Impairment Inventory. Results: Admission and discharge FIM scores were significantly lower for subjects with visuospatial neglect. The discharge destination for the group with visuospatial neglect demonstrated a trend toward supported living (i.e., long-term care). The groups did not differ significantly in onset to rehabilitation admission interval or length of rehabilitation stay. Conclusions: The presence of visuospatial neglect may predict the need for greater amounts of caregiver assistance at discharge.